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Don't judge a book by its cover and don't make assumptions about a product—or its quantity—by its packaging. What you (think you) see isn't always what you get! The odds are that your wallet has felt the effects of shrinkflation and skimpflation in recent years. You might have noticed that you’re getting less of the thing you want, and a drop in quality, despite paying the same or higher price.

Some companies are downright shameless when it comes to designing packaging in order to subtly trick their customers. Our team at Bored Panda has collected some of the most infuriating and eco-unfriendly examples of products that consumers have found at their local stores. Scroll down for a crash course on what not to do if you want your business to have a reputation for honesty, transparency, and ethics.

We wanted to learn about the fallout these sorts of practices can have on companies, as well as what customers can do to push back. Matt Johnson, PhD, a marketing psychology expert specializing in topics such as consumer psychology and serendipity, shed some light on this. Read on for the insights he shared with Bored Panda.

#1

Arguably The Infuriating Chocolate Boxes

Deceptive packaging design showing a box of chocolates with half the spaces empty.

TheGrandHydra Report

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PeepPeep the duck
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It even says ‘compound chocolate’ 😂 like it isn’t the most cheaply produced sweet already. Mega mega stingy

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Johnson explained to Bored Panda how deceptive product packaging can have negative repercussions on a company's reputation in the long term.

"Deceptive product packaging might boost short-term profits, but it’s a risky game that can undermine consumer trust—the bedrock of long-term brand loyalty. When customers feel misled, it sparks a sense of betrayal, which can ripple through word-of-mouth and online reviews, tarnishing a brand's reputation," he said.

He stressed the fact that the fallout isn't just emotional, it's also financial. "The cost of regaining trust often outweighs any initial savings, as brands must invest heavily in rebranding or damage control."

We were curious about where the line between frugality and cheapness lies with regard to business. According to Johnson, this line is defined by transparency.

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"Frugality is about smart, cost-effective decisions that don’t compromise value or honesty, while cheapness signals cutting corners at the customer’s expense. The best brands understand that consumers value authenticity as much as affordability, and a short-term win through deception risks a long-term loss that no amount of clever marketing can undo," the marketing psychology expert said.

Bored Panda was also interested in the things that the customers themselves can do to push back against deceptive practices like shrinkflation and skimpflation. Johnson noted that we aren't as powerless as we might seem.

"Shrinkflation and skimpflation—when products shrink or their quality diminishes without a corresponding drop in price—can feel frustrating, but consumers hold more power than they might realize. One of the best ways to push back is to vote with your wallet. Opt for brands that maintain transparency and value, even if it means exploring lesser-known or store-brand alternatives," he said.

#4

The Pointless Waste Of Plastic

Misleading packaging design of a lotion bottle with a false bottom.

Obviously it’s slightly misleading in terms of size, but more infuriating is the excess plastic used for no practical purpose.

mynameischrisd Report

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#5

Have Celiac Disease, Bought A New Gluten Free Product That Looked Good

Misleading packaging design example showing unappealing bread next to vibrant packaging of "The Better Bun."

To clarify, these are not the burgers. These are the buns that came out of that bag.

redcurrantevents Report

#6

Opened The Pizza Box To This

Pizza with sparse toppings next to a box showing a fully topped pizza, illustrating misleading packaging design.

I was so excited then I opened the box and a mild wave rage crept over my entire body. My husband and the cat are both hiding from me while I try to calm down, but I just stare at the pizza and get even angrier. Thought about calling the number on the box but the poor underpaid employee doesn’t deserve my unbridled wrath right now.
Might be over reacting but I am pregnant and was very excited for pizza.

sunsetauras Report

"Social media is another powerful tool; calling out misleading practices can create public pressure on brands to be more accountable. Consumer advocacy groups and platforms like Consumer Reports also offer ways to amplify concerns and demand change collectively. Additionally, being a vigilant shopper—reading labels, comparing unit prices, and keeping tabs on subtle changes—can help you make informed decisions," Johnson told Bored Panda.

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"When consumers collectively prioritize value and transparency, they nudge the market toward fairer practices. Brands that respect their customers tend to win in the long run."

#7

This Has To Be Illegal. Found In A "Handmade" Country Store

Label showing blended cashmere on fabric misleadingly made of 100% polyester.

reddit.com Report

#8

The Ultimate In Deceptive Packaging From Sunday Riley

Misleading packaging design example showing a bottle of skincare product with excess inner packaging.

Took the lid off to get any that was left in the jar and the actual product is in the most minuscule little bag attached to the pump.

meghanomicon Report

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#9

The Chocolate Wafers I Bought A Week Ago vs. The Ones I Bought Today. Same Price Ofc

Empty chocolate tray next to a half-filled one, demonstrating misleading packaging design.

Statakaka Report

To be completely blunt, if you constantly lie to your loyal customer base, you’ll push them away. Nobody enjoys feeling like they’re being taken advantage of. And as a consumer, if you’re willing to do a bit of research, there are always better, more consumer-friendly alternatives for you to find.

Besides, it’s a very human feeling to want to get back at a person or organization that constantly lies to everyone. For example, someone might start posting about those deceptive practices on social media, and it can go viral, damaging the business’s reputation and—perhaps more importantly—profit margins.

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The World Economic Forum explains that shrinkflation is the phenomenon where consumer products get smaller in size, but their price doesn’t change accordingly. A similar phenomenon is so-called skimpflation, where companies reduce the quality of their product or service while keeping the price the same.

When it comes to shrinkflation and skimpflation, you’re paying the same amount of money as before for less quantity or quality, respectively. Or, to flip that around, you end up paying more than before per measure of quantity or quality. In short, your purchasing power and overall satisfaction go down.

With so many sales happening during every holiday season, companies can rack up a massive profit if they suddenly decide to use up fewer resources to put out more products. It’s an ever-present temptation to go beyond the impact of inflation.

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CNN reports that American consumers spent a jaw-dropping $13.3 billion on Cyber Monday in 2024, a spike of 7.3% compared to a year ago. It’s hard to resist ‘last call’ deals. Especially if you’re still looking for holiday gifts for your loved ones, decide to treat yourself, or you realize that you can save a ton of money on big purchases you would’ve made in the near future anyway.

As per Adobe Analytics, the total amount spent in the US by consumers this year during the 5-day holiday stretch from Thanksgiving reached a whopping $41.1 billion.

“While Cyber Monday remained the season’s and year’s biggest online shopping day, year-over-year growth was stronger on both Thanksgiving and Black Friday,” says Adobe Digital Insights lead analyst Vivek Pandya.

According to Adobe, holiday spending in the US for November 1 through December 31 is likely to go above $240 billion, a rise of 8.4% compared to 2023.

#13

Box Of Chocolates Missing Row Hidden By Packaging

Heart-shaped box with misleading packaging design, showing fewer chocolates than expected.

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Petra Peitsch
Community Member
1 day ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The question, is the written and paid gramm of chocolate in the package? If not, that's ilegal, if yes, it§s a waste of plastic.

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#14

It’s Come For My Kids Candy Now

Misleading packaging design of Airheads candy, showing a partially filled wrapper on a wooden surface.

Should be a lawsuit for deceit and false advertising. The candy is just over half as long as the packaging

Every-Cook5084 Report

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Nikole
Community Member
2 days ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have one of those in my desk drawer at work. You can’t tell how long it is because of the plastic tray.

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According to LendingTree, 71% of Americans have noticed at least one incident of shrinkflation in the past year, while 57% said they’ve experienced multiple incidents. As per LendingTree’s analysis of 98 commonly used consumer products, a third have shrunk. “Household paper products—toilet paper and paper towels—saw the highest rate of change via fewer sheets per roll.”

Meanwhile, “seven of the 16 (or 43.8%) breakfast items analyzed have been downsized since 2019 or 2020. Family-size Frosted Flakes dropped 9.6% from 24.0 ounces to 21.7, leading to a 40.0% price increase per ounce. Of the 13 candy items, five (38.5%) changed size. Meanwhile, six of 22 (27.3%) snacks analyzed underwent size reductions.”

As it turns out, the price isn’t the only important thing. “Consumers don’t just look at prices, and they prefer price bumps over shrinking products. 89% of Americans always or sometimes compare brands’ product sizes or quantities when shopping. Many Americans would prefer that companies raise prices (38%) rather than reduce sizes (28%).”

#16

How Is This Allowed

Misleading packaging design with empty space inside chocolate box, revealing less content than expected.

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PeepPeep the duck
Community Member
2 days ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I worked for Lindt, I can answer for lindor balls (I was lindors caramel girl 😂). They are the MOST insanely sensitive to transport chocolates ever, they need plenty of bounce room, not to smoosh or smash (depending on temperature). Also in our contracts we have to make sure any we have on hand are always stored and transported in a very air conditioned room. Which sucked for me one summer when I had boxes and my cars air con ran out of gas. They are the soufflés of chocolate.

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#17

1/3 Full Brand New Deodorant

Clear gel deodorant package appears full but is mostly empty, an example of misleading packaging design.

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Bookworm
Community Member
Premium
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Been there. By the time you roll those gel deodorants up enough to use them, it's like, what did I actually pay for?

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#18

We Bought 12 Quail Eggs For Price Of 12. We Got 10 Due To Clever Packaging

Quail eggs in a carton, an example of misleading packaging design with fewer eggs than expected.

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Brazen
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wouldn't the packaging have to list that it had ten and not twelve? Has anyone had this issue before?

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Shrinkflation and skimpflation hurt your wallet, the quality of your life, your potential savings, and, in the long run, can affect your lifestyle, because you can’t afford what you used to and need to cut back.

That’s on top of the sinking feeling that your hard-earned wage isn’t as valuable as it was in the past. You then have a few options. First of all, you can look for cheaper alternatives, potentially sacrificing some product quality in the process.

#19

Father-In-Law Bought A Jacket Advertised With Recco Included (Avalanche Beacon). Felt Off To Me, And Lo And Behold It's Just A Piece Of Foam

Close-up of a knife and misaligned label on jacket, illustrating misleading packaging design.

thereluctantpoet Report

#20

We Bought A Seemingly Delicious Pastry Cream Dessert At The Grocery Store. This Was The Amount Of Cream In Every Croissant In The Package

Misleading packaging design: croissant package with pastry cream, but minimal filling inside visible sliced croissant.

I wish I could say at least it tasted good, but I can’t.

nukeskywalkerr Report

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Petra Peitsch
Community Member
1 day ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Beside the cream, that pastry dough doesn't look croissant at all

#21

This Trend Really Needs To Stop

Misleading packaging design showing macaroni box with smaller actual product window.

Like they fill it up just high enough to cover the little window on the box but if you look closer you'll see that it stops right there. Tilt the box on its side and you can see how much is really in it. I'm so sick of this stuff.

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Brazen
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is why I always compare products by weight and price, in order to get the best deal.

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Sure, there are cheaper chocolates available if your favorite brand has embraced shrinkflation. However, the alternatives might taste different or use cheaper ingredients. It’s not the end of the world, but it’s not quite what you’re looking for. Hardly anyone enjoys making lifestyle changes when they don’t have to. It feels nice to have some basic comforts you can rely on in your life.

#22

My Unopened Tub Of Protein Powder Only Comes A Third Of The Way Full

Misleading packaging design showing a large protein jar with sparse powder content, emphasizing the empty space.

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The containers of these are standardised, and powder compacts with time. And because I know what these threads are like: an explanation is not support.

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#24

When They Hide It Through Deception: They Pack 120, Not 125 As Indicated On The Package. (Counted Last 2 Purchases - Both Were 120)

Misleading packaging showing a stack of 125 paper plates labeled First Street, appearing larger than actual size.

WhaneTheWhip Report

Another thing to consider is that not every alternative to your fave products is going to be available in your local shops. You might need to walk or drive further or even rely on deliveries. This can eat into your time due to a longer commute, or your cash due to more fuel use or added delivery costs.

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You can also decide to focus on bringing home more money so that you can afford the same standard of living you got used to. This might mean talking to your boss about that overdue raise or promotion, applying to new jobs at your company or other businesses, or working longer hours for overtime.

#25

This Hair Gel

Misleading packaging example: large Old Spice container with smaller inner product visible.

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Pretty standard for this type of product. This is why you should always be checking the unit, in this case oz, price.

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#26

Come On Fannie May…you Had To Short Us One?

Misleading packaging example: chocolate box with empty slots and an arrow pointing at them.

btw Corporate Douchebaggery Apologists, don’t even start with the “extra protective room” for the chocolates…

HoppesNo9 Report

#27

25 Grams... Yeah

Misleading packaging design shows peanut snack with minimal contents on a scale.

Just bought this

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Ripley
Community Member
2 days ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And 25g is the nett weight, so the product without the packaging . . . or at least it should be.

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Or you might even feel pressured to pick up a side hustle or two just to maintain your and your family’s lifestyle and reputation in your local community. Public perception and the desire to be admired and respected are phenomenal sources of anxiety if you let them run wild.

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#28

Who Designs A Easter Egg Box Like This?

Chocolate bunny packaging with smaller egg inside, illustrating misleading packaging design.

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PeepPeep the duck
Community Member
2 days ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Someone took your bun buns :( or on the factory line it fell out before boxing. That’s always sad, the bunny is the best part

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#29

What A Crock

Misleading packaging example showing a Country Crock container half-filled with margarine.

I have storage space!

logicnotemotion Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This looks like an error. Check the weight, contact the manufacturer, this is not normal.

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Which of these examples of misleading designs made your blood boil? Have you noticed any examples of shrinkflation in your local shops over the past few years? What is the most recent case of deceptive product packaging you’ve stumbled across?

Would you rather companies raise prices or reduce the amount (or quality) of the products and services you get? Let us know in the comments!

#31

String Cheese I Get Every Week, Left Is Old And Right Is New (All The New Ones In The Bag Were Smaller)

Misleading packaging design with cheese sticks in large wrappers, creating the illusion of more product.

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Nikole
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’ve experienced this as well. Surely they’re passing the savings onto the workers, right? Right?

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#33

Have A Cold, So I Got Myself Some Claritin… What Is This

Blister pack showing empty spots, demonstrating misleading packaging design.

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Question: Claritin is an anti-histamine and will do nothing for a cold, why buy this for a cold?

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#35

Opening A Box Of Chocolates Only To Find More Air Than Actual Chocolate Inside Is Mildly Infuriating

Box of chocolates with misleading packaging design showing minimal content.

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#36

Deceptive Packaging Sizes

Misleading packaging design shows a small bag of snacks inside a large box.

It could fit into a bag a 1/4 of the size. At what point is this just false advertising lol

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
2 days ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Only false advertising if they don't list the grams etc or pieces on the box.

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#38

Paper Thin Layer Of Egg Custard On Top

Deceptive cake packaging, displaying a filled pastry on the package but revealing minimal filling inside the actual product.

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PeepPeep the duck
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’m not bagging my Filipino snacks, but they do this a lot too with snack cakes.

#39

I'm Disappointed That Palmer's Resorts To Deceptive Packaging

Misleading packaging design of a cream container with false interior size.

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MindNumbinglyBoringJob
Community Member
1 day ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have to thank anyone who takes the time to cut open these containers. They are doing all of us a huge service.

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#41

This Power Rangers Box Is Twice As Big As It Should Be, Intentionally Misleading Kids Into Thinking They Get A Big Toy

Misleading packaging design with oversized Dinozord construction set box and small Lego pieces inside.

As an added infuriation, they only made the Tyrannosaurus, Triceratops, Mastodon, and Sabertooth Tiger. Sorry Kimberly and Tommy. And EXTRA sorry if you were hoping to build a megazord.

TroaAxaltion Report

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Leah Brown
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe the extra spaces in the cardboard are for sorting the pieces?

#42

Why Though?

Misleading packaging with "Non-Dairy Creamer" label, but ingredients list shows "Contains Milk."

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Caesin will not trigger lactose intolerance, so it can be advertised this way. However, caesin WILL trigger milk allergies, so that has to be made clear on the packaging. This is made specifically for people with lactose intolerance, if you're a vegan get some specifically labelled vegan creamer.

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#43

Putting 1 Less Pizza In The Package Is Seen As 'New Recipe'?

Misleading packaging design with Dr. Oetker mini pizza showing different quantities on boxes.

The one on the right is replacing the one on the left. They only took 10% off the price. Marketing sucks.

AssignmentWilling486 Report

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Pernille
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dr. Oetker is the worst frozen pizzas around, but hopefully these were cheap.

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#44

At Its Finest

Misleading packaging design showing pepper sachet with transparent contents.

ValuableApart69 Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Are the rest of them like this too? Seems like it's a single package error, beause this is not normal.

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#46

Embarrassed To Say I've Been Tricked By The Gap

Misleading packaging design with wrap and gravy dip container creating a deceptive impression of contents.

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#47

Kids Book

Children's book with misleading packaging design, showing various animals like lion and tiger.

Bought this book for my kid. "For touching and feeling". The lion has fur on it but every other page after the cover is just a blank page.

germaniko Report

#48

I Mean Yeah Read The Weight But Like. Really? My Aunt Bought These And This Is Just Mildly Infuriating Thing. I Don't Think The Weight Would Indicate This

Misleading packaging with mostly empty chocolate sections in a box.

F4ntomP Report

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Tiger
Community Member
1 day ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sometimes the weight doesn’t indicate much info to the consumer, especially if they’ve never bought the product before. Like, say this says 300g worth of cookies on the package, and you’re not really sure how many of these exact cookies 300g is, then you pull the tray out and realize THIS is what 300g of cookies means…it still gives an icky feeling knowing they tried to make the package bigger so people would think 300g is more cookies than it actually is….am I making sense?

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#49

I Discovered Why My "Fragrance Free" Face Wash Has Such A Strong Floral Odor

Fragrance-free facial cleanser misleading packaging; fragrance listed in ingredients.

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Brazen
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"masking fragrances are designed to conceal a bad smell and create a neutral smell." I had to look this up to see what it was, so I am not really sure what this person can smell. I'm really curious though.

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#50

Looks Like Ice Cream Is More Expensive Than Ice

Misleading packaging design with ice cream looking smaller than on the box.

pygmy Report

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Isn't this just how they are made? It would be different if the icypole part was flat across the top.

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#51

Natural Beef Sticks, Disappoint

Misleading packaging design showing large beef sticks bag and one small stick in front.

they look full size in the package but are pretty tiny in reality.

naytebro Report

#52

This Cereal Advertises As Having 13g Of Protein, But The Nutrition Info On The Side Shows It Only Has 5.6g. The Other 7.4g Of Protein Is Only If You Add Milk

Kellogg's Vector cereal box misleading packaging with bold high protein claims.

Soupdeloup Report

#53

Cookies Of Lies

Misleading packaging design showing cookies with colorful sprinkles only on the front.

Oh, you wanted them ALL to have sprinkles? Well, you only get two. Bozo.

reddit.com Report

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Lily bloom
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The box is clear. You can clearly see that only the cookies in the front have sprinkles. Clearly.

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#54

This Toy Bucket Looks Like It’s Full. A Classic Waste Of Plastic

Misleading packaging showing a large fun bucket of unicorn toys with only a few figures actually inside.

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#55

I Bought A Two-Pack Of "Pride-Themed" Socks From My Local Drugstore. When I Got Home, I Found That Only One Pair Has A Rainbow Design; The Other Is Plain White. They Had The Former Facing Forward, Presumably So That Customers Would Not Notice The Latter

Misleading packaging design showing white socks with rainbow packaging.

TimeWalker77 Report

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Damned_Cat
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Similar to when you buy tissue to stuff into gift bags. The top sheet is a pretty design, but all the other sheets are plain white.

#56

It’s Not The Worst In The World But Annoys Me Anyways

Misleading packaging of caramel cake bars, showing more in the picture than in the box.

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#57

One Of The Blocks Isn't One Of The Blocks

Misleading packaging showing soft blocks in vibrant colors, actual blocks differ in design underneath.

golden-potato Report

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#58

Misleading Label On My Juice

Cranberry juice bottle with misleading packaging, highlighting "100% juice" but notes added apple juice and other flavors.

I wanted 100% cranberry juice so I bought this juice labeled “100% JUICE CRANBERRY”, only to get home, pour myself a glass, and notice the next line on the label, in much, much smaller print.

heretic_eric Report

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Daniel Atkins
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is very common lots of juice is flavored apple juice. Just enough of the juice for the flavor but mainly apple juice.

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#59

Completely Misleading Packaging

Misleading packaging design with a large outer bottle and a small inner container of face cream.

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#61

Caught Our Japanese Exchange Student About To Drink This Because It Says “Soda” And Has Fruit On The Label

Misleading packaging example of Fabuloso cleaner resembling a beverage bottle with baking soda label in a kitchen setting.

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Peter Parker
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It probably has more real fruit in it than one of these "fruit" drinks.

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#62

Dove Deception - The Entire Left Side Is Empty. It's An Entire Box Just Half Filled

Misleading packaging of plant milk cleansing bars with a large box and smaller product inside.

Commercial_Sun_6300 Report

#63

Ready In 10 Mins. Cook For 16-17 Mins. Velveeta Explain

Velveeta packaging promises 10-minute prep but instructions specify 16-17 minutes, highlighting misleading packaging design.

dudebrohmanguy Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Packaging error. 16-17 minutes is for the jumbo shells, not the shells & cheese.

#65

Dr Squatch Deodorant Air Gapped

Misleading packaging showing a large container with a small amount of product inside, revealing empty space when opened.

WireRot Report

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Doesn't this have more to do with the rising mechanism? Again, look at the unit price and compare to other brand.

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#67

Bought A Bag Of Frozen Fruit Thinking That It Might Come With Some Strawberries. It Be Like That Sometimes

Misleading packaging showing different fruit mix on the outside of the bag compared to the contents inside.

TheGaslighter9000X Report

#69

Caught In The Act (Shrinkflation). Same Price But One Is Almost A Third Less Product

Premium paper towels packaging with "2 giant rolls" claim displayed.

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Data1001
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's like what the major toilet paper companies did some years ago -- kept the same thickness and number of sheets, but made the rolls less wide -- all for the same price. I caught this because I apparently bought rolls just before and just after they made the switch. The size difference was quite obvious.

#71

My Wife Just Showed Me How They Are Packaging Bacon Now To Fool Customers. They Use That Front Flat To Hide That There Are About Two Less Slices Of Bacon Now. Look At The Front View, Then Look At The Side View

Misleading packaging design showing bacon label with hidden section behind the front layer.

WallStreetMav Report

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Daniel Atkins
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It is sold by weight not by the peice. This is just extra packaging not less bacon. They mostl likely use the same size package for the thinner sliced bacon. This is thick cut and will have fewer slices at the same weight as the thinner sliced bacon.

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#74

Walgreens “Actual Size” Label Compared To The Actual Size

Allergy medication bottle with a large pill, example of misleading packaging design.

ihatewinter Report

#75

My Shoe Deoderiser From Aldi Is Actually Just A Coles Women's Anti-Perspirant With A Plastic Label

Misleading packaging design with deodorant labeled as shoe spray upon peeling.

cl3ft Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aldi's supplier most likely recycles bottle, redditor posts it, get picked up by news, Aldi is forced to withdraw it. https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/beauty/face-body/aldi-apologises-for-packaging-fault-coles-deodorant-can-wrapped-in-aldi-packaging/news-story/c61b056cfe5b12468cd30cf47bfb1503

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#76

This Box Of Chocolates Has A Spacer That Takes Up Half The Box

Misleading packaging design: an empty chocolate box with vibrant mango-themed cover art.

DonkeyTron42 Report

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DemonicPanda
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

At this point, I'm not even really mad at the attempts to scam people, I'm mad at the waste of plastic and other materials used just to try and make a little more money.

#77

Excuse Me?? This Is A Scam

Misleading packaging design for Revolution Power Brow Fix showing large box, small jar of product.

$4.39 after tax and it looks like someone sneezed product into this jar. I don’t know if it actually counts as shrinkflation because I have never bought this product before, but it’s a goddamn scam. Straight back to Walmart it goes.

-Infamous-Interest- Report

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Ripley
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It says 3mL on the label. 3mL *is* just a sneeze worth. I mean, this kind of thing makes me cranky too, but you've got to look at the label.

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#78

Got Yelled At By Wife For Eating All The Cookies Until We Saw This. Middle Row Holds Two Less Cookies. Thanks Celebration Cookies

Empty packaging tray with a single chocolate piece, showing misleading packaging design.

25thaccount Report

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#79

“12 Days Of Hot Sauce” Advent Calendar Has Only Six Flavors

Hot sauce packaging showing 12 bottles with various flavors, highlighting playful design with hints of marketing exaggeration.

reddit.com Report

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Daniel Atkins
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It’s like they reversed the colors on some of the labels and hoped no one would read them.

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#81

The Size Of The Packaging vs. The Size Of The Bar

Hershey's chocolate next to its misleading packaging design on a lined notebook.

Mcstopwatch Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why are you positioning the chocolate t the crimped ends? Chocolate can't fit there. It's not that much smaller than the available space in the package.

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#82

What A Nice Big Plant Steak... Not

Misleading packaging with a small plant-based steak inside oversized box.

Bought this some time ago, and just remembered it when I saw the chocolate bar here...

MoonToast101 Report

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#83

This Candy Coffin Design That Is Raised To Hold Less Candy. The Candy Is Decent Tasting

Misleading packaging design of Halloween sour pumpkins in a skeleton-themed box, half-empty when opened.

martusfine Report

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#84

Not Only Have They Reduced From 750ml To 600ml ... Strategic Label Positioning

Powerade bottle with label covering half the bottle, demonstrating misleading packaging design example.

Thought something wasn't quite right when tipped to side, so removed label to confirm...

tgb00 Report

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#85

These “Double Stuff” Oreos I Bought

Misleading packaging design of Golden Double Stuf Oreo, showing fewer cookies inside.

IceCreamMeatballs Report

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#86

This Fish Sauce Does Not Contain Any Of The Creatures Pictured On The Label

Misleading packaging design with seafood images but label states no crab, shrimp, pomfret, or squid content.

Bri-guy15 Report

#87

Reminder To Always Read The Ingredients List Before Buying A New Product. Almost Bought This Chocolate That Claims To Be Vegan, It’s Not. How Is This Legal??

Misleading packaging showing vegan chocolate with milk ingredients in the description.

Look out for fake certification badges!

Jacked_Shrimp Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a 2+ year old printing error that has been long corrected.

#89

This Wizards Of The Coast Dungeons And Dragons 180 Card Set "With Evocative Images" Has Images On About 30 Cards, The Other 150 Cards Just Have This Red Symbol

D&D Creature cards with misleading packaging displaying Velociraptor, Triceratops options.

LiftingDa Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ported the images off D&D Beyond? That is Beyond's placeholder symbol for critters without art.

#90

This Is Beer Not Cider

Six-pack of Redd's Hard Apple in packaging that suggests apple flavor but contains beer. Misleading packaging design example.

I am so disappointed. Can’t legally return alcohol. What kind of misleading packaging is this??

gnarble Report

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#91

Only The Top Eggs Have Cool Patterns. Thank God We Only Paid Five Dollars For This

Colorful Easter egg packaging with fewer eggs inside, illustrating misleading packaging design examples.

Young_Person_42 Report

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Trista JW
Community Member
1 day ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not a ripoff at all, you can see some fof the plainer eggs through the window.

#92

Hmart In Arcadia, Ca Likes To Hide Salmon Scraps Behind The Labels.. Got Me This Time.. Never Again!

Misleading packaging design of salmon tray showing strategic placement of fish pieces.

klee1113 Report

#93

Deceptive Packaging On Expensive Popcorn From William Sonoma

Various popcorn kernels displayed in small packets, example of misleading packaging design.

$50 for this which makes it look like there is triple the popcorn kernels. The screwed up part is how cheap regular popcorn is.

Zenged_ Report

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Orchidoclaste
Community Member
1 day ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Read the whole thread. Maybe stop buying c**p. Expensive pop corn...FFS, it's corn

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#94

Claiming 10% More The Packaging Is Even Bigger To Deceive

Cheez Doodles packaging emphasizing "extra crunchy" with cheddar flavor, showcasing misleading design.

Liluzisquirt2x Report

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Daniel Atkins
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

New and improved can be put on the package even if it is just the logo or package that is improved.

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#95

The Contradicting Labels On The Packaging For Ice Blending

Misleading packaging design showing contradiction with ice cube blender disclaimer.

Pernicious_Enigma Report

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Brazen
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ok, I can't seem to stop myself from commenting on these things. Blended ice is not the same as ice cubes. I don't understand some people's reading comprehension levels.

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#97

Turns Out Pure Fat Is Zero Calories If You Just Make It Small Enough

Nutrition label on a cooking spray can with small serving size; example of misleading packaging design.

supyonamesjosh Report

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Data1001
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's pretty typical with labeling in the US. If it doesn't account for 1% or more, it can be labeled as 0% or zero grams.

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#98

This Margarita Mix Made Their Label The Exact Same Color As The Drink, So That You Can't Tell It's A Wine Cocktail And Doesn't Actually Have Tequila In It Until You're Halfway Done With It

Bottles of Rancho La Gloria strawberry margarita wine cocktail showcasing misleading packaging design examples.

notesfromthemoon Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why did you cut the bottom of the bottle off where it quite boldly says that it is 13.9% alcohol? Mate, this is booze, it contains tequila.

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#99

Bought A 'Chocolate' Cake At The Grocery Store

Misleading packaging design of a partly eaten cake, labeled chocolate, but revealing plain sponge interior.

realbigexplosion Report

#100

Same Multivitamin Product At Publix $1 Higher When Labeled For Women

Misleading packaging design of men's and women's multivitamin gummies with similar nutritional facts.

Pukefalillo Report

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Kira Okah
Community Member
2 days ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The ingredients are actually different, and both bottles are the exact same price, according to the Publix website.

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